Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that hits all the right notes—rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor—this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe is a total game-changer. Tender strips of perfectly seasoned sirloin steak paired with creamy, dreamy queso atop fluffy basmati rice create a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-warming. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a vibrant, comforting plate you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe plays an essential role, blending to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that dance together beautifully. From the fragrant basmati rice to the zesty spices and the luscious queso, everything is simple yet incredibly important.

• 2 cups Basmati Rice: This fragrant rice offers a light, fluffy texture that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth: Adds a savory depth that elevates the rice beyond plain water cooking.
• 1 cube Chicken Bouillon: Boosts the richness and umami of the dish without overpowering it.
• 1 can (about 14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes: Gives the rice a slight tang and a beautiful color to brighten the plate.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a subtle kick to the sauté.
• 1 small Onion, finely chopped (optional): Offers sweetness and texture when lightly cooked.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika: Adds vibrant color and a smoky undertone that complements the steak.
• ½ teaspoon Cumin: Provides a fragrant earthiness that enriches the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all the ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for sautéing to bring everything together with a silky finish.
• 1 pound Sirloin Steak, cut into thin strips: The hearty centerpiece with bold flavor and tender bite.
• 2 tbsp Butter: Adds a rich, silky touch to the steak when searing.
• Montreal Steak Seasoning to taste: Imparts a bold, peppery zest that makes the steak shine.
• White Queso for topping: Creamy and luscious, this is the crowning glory that melts over the steak and rice.
• Fresh Cilantro for garnish: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note and gorgeous green contrast.
• Flour tortillas (optional for serving): Perfect for wrapping up the flavors or scooping up every last bite.

How to Make Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

Step 1: Rinse and Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice turns out fluffy and separate rather than sticky. It’s a small trick that makes a big difference in the final texture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion (if using) and sauté until translucent and fragrant. This builds a savory foundation of flavor that infuses the entire dish with warmth and depth.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the aromatics and toast it gently for about 2 minutes. Toasting helps the grains develop a slightly nutty flavor and prepares them to soak up the liquid flavors more effectively.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, then stir everything together well. This colorful mixture will give the rice its vibrant hue and balanced, savory flavor.

Step 5: Simmer the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the lovely flavors. Avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the steam trapped inside.

Step 6: Rest the Rice

Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice sit, still covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking evenly and results in a fluffy, perfect texture.

Step 7: Season the Steak

While the rice rests, season your sirloin steak strips generously with Montreal steak seasoning. This spice blend is key for adding bold, peppery punch and enhancing the meat’s natural beefy flavor.

Step 8: Sear the Steak

In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak strips and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until beautifully browned but still juicy inside. The butter adds richness and helps create a delicious crust.

Step 9: Assemble the Dish

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then spread it evenly on your serving plates. Arrange the seared steak strips on top, and generously drizzle with warm white queso. The creamy queso melting over the steak and rice is pure comfort food bliss.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro over the dish for a bright herbaceous touch and a pop of vibrant green color. Serve with warm flour tortillas on the side if you want to turn it into a fun handheld meal.

How to Serve Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is a must for this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe because its bright, slightly citrusy notes contrast beautifully with the creamy, savory flavors. You can also sprinkle on sliced green onions or a squeeze of fresh lime for extra zest and freshness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy slaw. The richness of the steak and queso calls for something light and crunchy to balance the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe in warm flour tortillas as tacos or burritos for a crowd-pleasing twist. You could also layer the components in a casserole dish and bake it briefly for a bubbly, cheesy rice bake that’s fun for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Steak & Queso Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the steak from the rice if possible to keep the textures fresh and prevent the queso from soaking everything too much.

Freezing

You can freeze the rice and steak separately to preserve quality. Freeze each in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the rice and steak gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep things moist. Reheat the queso separately, either in a microwave or on low heat, and drizzle it on just before serving to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin is great for its tenderness and flavor, flank or skirt steak also works well if sliced thinly against the grain. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

The Steak & Queso Rice Recipe has a mild smoky warmth from the paprika and Montreal steak seasoning, but it’s not spicy hot. You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne if you prefer more heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To turn it vegetarian, skip the steak and use sautéed mushrooms or grilled veggies instead. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and substitute the queso with a vegetarian-friendly cheese sauce.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the steak?

Reheat the steak slowly in a pan with a little butter or broth over medium-low heat to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving steak directly, as it can dry out quickly.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in the Steak & Queso Rice Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your chicken bouillon and queso are certified gluten-free just to be safe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to casual get-togethers. I hope you fall in love with it as much as I have, and find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again because it just hits all the right spots.

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